Speaking of chainsaws...

[Larry Ashcraft]

Are there any small engine mechanics on here, or know of anyone?

I've got a Stihl 031AV I bought at an auction three years ago. It had recently been run, but I couldn't get it to start. Fresh plug and gas didn't help. I took it to a local mechanic who is good, but is having health issues. He didn't even touch it in three years.

I'm thinking it needs a carb rebuild and maybe converted to electronic ignition.

I don't mind paying a fair amount, but would rather not drive too far.

[Great-Kazoo]

try jacks 1st
http://www.jackssmallengines.com/stihl_index.cfm

http://www.lawnmowerpros.com/Stihl/Stihl-Parts.asp


http://stihlpartslookup.com/

Most likely 2 things maybe 3
1) rebuild the carb. Dried out diaphragm and you also meed to clean (better that you thought you did) the needle/seat area as bad fuel really screws this up.
2) fuel line is shot same for the fuel filter line
3) don't bother cleaning the filter replace while you're at it.

Rebuilding the carb is very easy even a newbie can do it.

Next step is for tight budget folks.
IF you want to shortcut the job. Disassemble the carb ,CAREFULLY remove the gaskets and diaphragm, then spray them down with WD40, let sit 5 min then reassemble.
MAKE sure no matter what you do. Clean out the needle and seat area. Ue a good carb cleaner to saturate all metal parts allowing them a good soak then blow off with air. NOT The CANNED crap, use a compressor.

Once you get it running i suggest the sthil synthetic mix. it acts like a fuel preservative. Any 2 stroke i had that was filled with the syn mix starts 1st 2nd pull no matter how long they sit.